Condition Lookup
Speciality:
Internal Medicine
Number of Conditions: 63
Common Cold
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
runny nose; sneezing; sore throat; cough; mild fever; fatigue; congestion
Root Cause:
Viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, commonly caused by rhinoviruses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms; no specific tests are usually required.
Treatment:
Rest, hydration, over-the-counter (OTC) symptom relief medications.
Medications:
Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ), antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine ), pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; adults average 2–3 colds per year.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, colder seasons, weakened immune system.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most cases resolve within 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections such as sinusitis or ear infections (rare).
Influenza (Flu)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
fever; chills; muscle aches; cough; congestion; fatigue; sore throat
Root Cause:
Infection by influenza viruses (A, B, or C) affecting the respiratory system.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation; confirmed by rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) or PCR tests.
Treatment:
Supportive care (rest, fluids), antiviral medications for severe cases.
Medications:
Antivirals such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu ), zanamivir (Relenza ), peramivir (Rapivab ). These are neuraminidase inhibitors.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 5–20% of the population annually, depending on the season.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age extremes, chronic illnesses, pregnancy, healthcare workers.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually resolves within 1–2 weeks, but complications can occur in vulnerable populations.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, bronchitis, exacerbation of chronic conditions, hospitalization.
Sinusitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
facial pain or pressure; nasal congestion; runny nose; headache; fever; tooth pain; postnasal drip
Root Cause:
Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, often caused by a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection or allergies.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging (e.g., CT scan) if chronic or recurrent.
Treatment:
Symptomatic relief for viral cases (hydration, nasal irrigation, decongestants), antibiotics for bacterial infections, surgery for severe chronic cases.
Medications:
Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ), antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin ) if bacterial, decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, with millions of cases annually; can be acute or chronic.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergies, smoking, nasal polyps, previous respiratory infections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually resolves in a few weeks with appropriate treatment; chronic cases may require long-term management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis, orbital cellulitis, brain abscess (rare).
Tonsillitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
sore throat; difficulty swallowing; fever; swollen and red tonsils; white patches on tonsils; bad breath
Root Cause:
Infection and inflammation of the tonsils, typically caused by viruses (e.g., adenovirus) or bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pyogenes).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Throat examination, rapid strep test, throat culture.
Treatment:
Viral cases
Medications:
Antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin for bacterial cases; OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common in children; less frequent in adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Frequent exposure to infections, close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune system.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; most cases resolve in 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peritonsillar abscess, airway obstruction (in severe cases), rheumatic fever (if untreated strep infection).
Laryngitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
hoarseness; loss of voice; sore throat; dry throat; cough
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the larynx, often due to viral infections, overuse of the voice, or irritants (e.g., smoke).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms; laryngoscopy may be used for chronic or severe cases.
Treatment:
Resting the voice, hydration, treating the underlying cause (e.g., antibiotics for bacterial infection).
Medications:
Antibiotics (if bacterial, though rare), OTC pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen , corticosteroids for severe inflammation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; acute laryngitis occurs frequently in individuals who use their voice excessively or have respiratory infections.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Overuse of the voice, smoking, GERD, respiratory infections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; acute cases typically resolve in a few days to weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic laryngitis, vocal cord damage (rare), persistent hoarseness requiring specialist evaluation.
Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Cardiovascular Conditions
Symptoms:
typically asymptomatic; xanthomas (yellowish skin deposits in severe cases); chest pain (if related to atherosclerosis)
Root Cause:
Elevated levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood, often linked to diet, genetics, or other diseases.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (lipid panel) showing elevated LDL (bad cholesterol), total cholesterol, or triglycerides; low HDL (good cholesterol).
Treatment:
Diet modifications, exercise, medications if necessary.
Medications:
Statins (e.g., atorvastatin , rosuvastatin ), PCSK9 inhibitors (e.g., alirocumab ), bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine ), fibrates (e.g., fenofibrate ), omega-3 fatty acids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common, especially in high-income countries; prevalence increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition, diabetes, smoking.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; untreated cases increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease.
Angina
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Cardiovascular Conditions
Symptoms:
chest pain or discomfort; pain radiating to arms, neck, or jaw; shortness of breath; fatigue
Root Cause:
Insufficient blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowed coronary arteries (ischemia).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stress test, ECG, echocardiogram, coronary angiography.
Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, medications, possible surgical interventions (e.g., angioplasty).
Medications:
Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ), beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil ), antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin ), statins.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with coronary artery disease; increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, family history of heart disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; untreated angina increases the risk of heart attack.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias.
Heart Failure (Mild to Moderate Management)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Cardiovascular Conditions
Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; swelling in legs or abdomen; cough with pink frothy sputum; difficulty exercising
Root Cause:
The heart cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup and insufficient circulation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, echocardiogram, BNP blood tests, chest X-ray.
Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications, medications, treatment of underlying conditions.
Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ), beta-blockers (e.g., carvedilol ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ), aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone ), SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., dapagliflozin ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1–2% of adults worldwide; increases significantly with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, obesity, prior heart attack.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with variable outcomes; early intervention improves quality of life and survival.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Fluid overload, kidney failure, arrhythmias.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Cardiovascular Conditions
Symptoms:
leg pain while walking (claudication); cold or numb extremities; weak pulse in the legs; non-healing sores or ulcers
Root Cause:
Narrowing of peripheral arteries due to atherosclerosis, leading to reduced blood flow to the limbs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ankle-brachial index (ABI), Doppler ultrasound, angiography.
Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, exercise therapy, medications, possible surgical interventions.
Medications:
Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin , clopidogrel ), statins (e.g., atorvastatin ), vasodilators (e.g., cilostazol ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 3–10% of the global population, increasing with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; early treatment prevents progression. Severe cases risk amputation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Critical limb ischemia, ulcers, infection, gangrene.
Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), Including Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Cardiovascular Conditions
Symptoms:
swelling in one leg; pain or tenderness; red or discolored skin; warmth in the affected area; shortness of breath (if pulmonary embolism)
Root Cause:
Formation of blood clots in the veins, often in the legs, that may travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound, D-dimer blood test, CT pulmonary angiography (for suspected pulmonary embolism).
Treatment:
Anticoagulation therapy, compression stockings, physical activity.
Medications:
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , rivaroxaban , apixaban ), thrombolytics in severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1–2 per 1,000 people annually; increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immobility, surgery, cancer, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, genetic clotting disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; untreated cases can lead to life-threatening complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary embolism, post-thrombotic syndrome, recurrent clots.
Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Conditions
Symptoms:
increased thirst; frequent urination; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; blurred vision; slow-healing wounds; tingling or numbness in hands/feet (type 2)
Root Cause:
Type 1
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, HbA1c ≥ 6.5%, oral glucose tolerance test, random blood glucose test.
Treatment:
Type 1
Medications:
Type 1
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10% of adults worldwide, predominantly Type 2.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Type 1
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; early treatment reduces the risk of complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, kidney disease (nephropathy), eye damage (retinopathy), nerve damage (neuropathy), foot ulcers.
Hyperthyroidism
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Conditions
Symptoms:
unexplained weight loss; rapid heartbeat; anxiety; sweating; heat intolerance; tremors; increased appetite; bulging eyes (in graves' disease)
Root Cause:
Overproduction of thyroid hormones, often due to Graves' disease (autoimmune) or toxic multinodular goiter.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Low TSH and high free T4/T3 levels in blood tests, thyroid scan or ultrasound.
Treatment:
Antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, thyroidectomy.
Medications:
Methimazole , propylthiouracil (antithyroid drugs); beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol ) for symptom management.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1–2% of the population; more common in women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, autoimmune conditions, excessive iodine intake.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; complications are preventable with treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Thyroid storm (acute, life-threatening hyperthyroidism), atrial fibrillation, osteoporosis.
Obesity and Weight Management
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Conditions
Symptoms:
excess body fat; fatigue; breathlessness; joint pain; snoring or sleep apnea
Root Cause:
Chronic energy imbalance leading to excess fat accumulation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30; waist circumference measurement.
Treatment:
Diet modifications, increased physical activity, behavioral therapy, medications, bariatric surgery (in severe cases).
Medications:
Orlistat (lipase inhibitor), liraglutide (GLP-1 agonist), phentermine /topiramate .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 13% of the global population; increasing in prevalence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, genetics, hormonal imbalances, psychological factors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; sustained weight loss significantly improves health outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, certain cancers.
Peptic Ulcers
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Digestive and Gastrointestinal Conditions
Symptoms:
burning stomach pain; bloating; nausea; vomiting; dark or tarry stools; fatigue (from anemia)
Root Cause:
Erosion of the stomach or duodenal lining, often due to Helicobacter pylori infection or long-term NSAID use.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Upper endoscopy, H. pylori testing (breath, stool, or biopsy).
Treatment:
Antibiotics for H. pylori, acid suppression therapy, lifestyle changes.
Medications:
PPIs (e.g., omeprazole ), H2 receptor blockers (e.g., ranitidine), antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin and clarithromycin for H. pylori).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 5–10% of the population at some point in life.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, NSAID use, smoking, stress, alcohol consumption.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; recurrence possible if underlying causes persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bleeding, perforation, gastric obstruction, increased cancer risk.
Diarrhea
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Digestive and Gastrointestinal Conditions
Symptoms:
frequent, loose stools; abdominal cramps; nausea; dehydration; fever (if infectious)
Root Cause:
Increased stool water content due to infections, food intolerances, medications, or conditions like IBS.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history; stool tests for infectious causes; colonoscopy for chronic cases.
Treatment:
Hydration, dietary adjustments, medications based on the cause.
Medications:
Antidiarrheals (e.g., loperamide ), antibiotics for bacterial infections, probiotics for gut health.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; acute cases occur in nearly everyone at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated food or water, infections, antibiotic use, chronic conditions.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for acute cases; chronic diarrhea depends on underlying cause.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, malnutrition.
Hemorrhoids
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Digestive and Gastrointestinal Conditions
Symptoms:
rectal pain or itching; bleeding during bowel movements; swelling around the anus; lump near the anus
Root Cause:
Swollen veins in the anal region due to increased pressure (e.g., straining, pregnancy).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, digital rectal exam, anoscopy.
Treatment:
High-fiber diet, hydration, topical treatments, minimally invasive procedures (if severe).
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone ), pain relievers (e.g., lidocaine creams), stool softeners.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 50% of adults by age 50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Constipation, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, obesity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; severe cases may require surgery.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anemia from chronic bleeding, thrombosed hemorrhoids.
Gallbladder Issues (Mild)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Digestive and Gastrointestinal Conditions
Symptoms:
right upper abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; indigestion; pain after eating fatty meals
Root Cause:
Gallstones (cholelithiasis) or inflammation (cholecystitis) impairing gallbladder function.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound, liver function tests, HIDA scan.
Treatment:
Dietary modifications, pain management; surgery if recurrent or severe.
Medications:
Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen ), ursodeoxycholic acid for gallstone dissolution (rarely used).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–15% of adults; more common in women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, high-fat diet, pregnancy, rapid weight loss.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with management; severe cases may require cholecystectomy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Biliary colic, pancreatitis, bile duct obstruction.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Digestive and Gastrointestinal Conditions
Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; fatigue; abdominal discomfort; elevated liver enzymes in blood tests
Root Cause:
Excess fat accumulation in the liver unrelated to alcohol use, often linked to metabolic syndrome.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Liver function tests, ultrasound, liver biopsy for advanced cases.
Treatment:
Weight loss, diet modifications, managing underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes).
Medications:
No specific FDA-approved drugs; vitamin E or pioglitazone may be used in select cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 25% of adults globally; increasing with obesity rates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high-fat diet.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with lifestyle changes; severe cases may progress to cirrhosis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Early Detection and Referral)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Musculoskeletal and Joint Conditions
Symptoms:
joint pain and swelling; morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes; fatigue; weight loss; low-grade fever
Root Cause:
Autoimmune disorder causing chronic inflammation in joints and systemic effects.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP), X-rays or MRI showing joint erosion.
Treatment:
Referral to a rheumatologist for disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs); NSAIDs and corticosteroids for symptom relief.
Medications:
DMARDs (e.g., methotrexate , leflunomide ), biologics (e.g., adalimumab , etanercept ), corticosteroids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1% of the population; more common in women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smoking, certain infections, female sex.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment slows disease progression; untreated cases lead to joint damage and disability.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint deformity, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, lung disease.
Back Pain
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Musculoskeletal and Joint Conditions
Symptoms:
localized or radiating pain in the back; muscle stiffness; reduced mobility; shooting pain down the legs (sciatica)
Root Cause:
Can result from muscle strain, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or poor posture.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRI, CT) if severe or chronic.
Treatment:
Physical therapy, lifestyle changes, pain management, surgery for structural abnormalities.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ), muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ), corticosteroid injections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Leading cause of disability worldwide; affects up to 80% of adults at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, poor posture, heavy lifting, aging.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases improve with conservative treatment; chronic pain may require ongoing management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, reduced mobility, depression.
Neck Pain
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Musculoskeletal and Joint Conditions
Symptoms:
pain or stiffness in the neck; radiating pain to shoulders or arms; headaches; limited neck movement
Root Cause:
Often caused by muscle strain, poor posture, degenerative changes, or injury.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and physical exam; imaging if neurological symptoms or chronic pain.
Treatment:
Physical therapy, ergonomic adjustments, pain management.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen ), muscle relaxants (e.g., methocarbamol ), corticosteroid injections for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in individuals with sedentary jobs or poor posture.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor ergonomics, trauma (e.g., whiplash), degenerative disc disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good; most cases resolve within weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, nerve impingement.
Tendonitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Musculoskeletal and Joint Conditions
Symptoms:
pain at the tendon site; swelling; tenderness; reduced mobility
Root Cause:
Inflammation of a tendon due to overuse, repetitive motion, or injury.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, ultrasound or MRI if severe or persistent.
Treatment:
Rest, ice, physical therapy, activity modification.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ), corticosteroid injections for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in physically active individuals or those with repetitive motions in their job.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Repetitive movements, age, poor technique during physical activity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with rest and treatment; recurrence possible if the underlying cause is not addressed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tendon rupture, chronic pain.
Migraines and Headaches
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Neurological and Mental Health Conditions
Symptoms:
throbbing or pulsating headache; sensitivity to light and sound; nausea; vomiting; aura (visual or sensory disturbances) in some cases
Root Cause:
Thought to involve abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, symptom patterns, ruling out other causes with imaging if necessary.
Treatment:
Preventive measures, acute treatment during attacks, lifestyle modifications.
Medications:
Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan ), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ), antiemetics (e.g., metoclopramide ), preventive drugs like beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol ), anticonvulsants (e.g., topiramate ), CGRP inhibitors (e.g., erenumab ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 12% of the population globally; more common in women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Stress, hormonal changes, certain foods or drinks, sleep disturbances, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; frequency and severity often decrease with treatment and lifestyle changes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Medication overuse headaches, chronic migraines, reduced quality of life.
Tension Headaches
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Neurological and Mental Health Conditions
Symptoms:
mild to moderate headache; band-like pressure around the head; tightness in neck and scalp; no nausea or vomiting
Root Cause:
Muscle tension or stress-induced activation of pain pathways in the head.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms; imaging or tests only to rule out other causes.
Treatment:
Stress management, relaxation techniques, medications for acute relief.
Medications:
OTC pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline ) for chronic cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common type of headache; affects about 30–80% of adults occasionally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Stress, poor posture, lack of sleep, eye strain.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment and lifestyle modifications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare; chronic tension headaches can reduce quality of life.
Stress-Related Disorders
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Neurological and Mental Health Conditions
Symptoms:
emotional distress; sleep disturbances; physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, muscle tension); irritability; difficulty concentrating
Root Cause:
Prolonged activation of the stress response system leading to physical and emotional symptoms.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, ruling out other medical conditions.
Treatment:
Stress management techniques, therapy, medications for symptom relief.
Medications:
Anxiolytics (e.g., buspirone ), antidepressants (e.g., sertraline ), beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol for physical symptoms).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; varies by individual susceptibility and environmental factors.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic stressors, poor coping mechanisms, history of trauma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; symptoms resolve when stress is managed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Neurological and Mental Health Conditions
Symptoms:
difficulty focusing; impulsivity; hyperactivity; poor organizational skills; forgetfulness
Root Cause:
Neurodevelopmental disorder involving dysregulation of dopamine and norepinephrine pathways in the brain.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, symptoms present in multiple settings (e.g., school, home).
Treatment:
Behavioral therapy, educational interventions, medications.
Medications:
Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate , amphetamines), non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine , guanfacine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 5–10% of children; persists into adulthood in some cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, low birth weight, prenatal exposure to tobacco or alcohol.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; early treatment improves outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poor academic or work performance, social difficulties, substance abuse.
Dementia (Initial Diagnosis and Management)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Neurological and Mental Health Conditions
Symptoms:
memory loss; difficulty with language; impaired judgment; mood changes; difficulty completing daily tasks
Root Cause:
Progressive loss of cognitive function due to neurodegeneration (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, cognitive tests (e.g., MMSE, MoCA), imaging (MRI, CT), blood tests to rule out reversible causes.
Treatment:
Symptom management, support for caregivers, medications for slowing progression in some types.
Medications:
Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil ), NMDA receptor antagonists (e.g., memantine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 5–8% of adults over 60; increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, family history, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, smoking.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive; treatment focuses on symptom management and support.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disability, dependence on caregivers, reduced quality of life.
Eczema
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
red, itchy, inflamed skin; dryness; cracks or scales; fluid-filled blisters (in acute cases); thickened skin (in chronic cases)
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammatory condition often linked to genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, such as allergens or irritants.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms and history; patch testing may be done to identify triggers.
Treatment:
Moisturizers, avoidance of triggers, topical medications.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone ), calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus ), antihistamines for itching, systemic treatments for severe cases (e.g., dupilumab ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10–20% of children and 1–3% of adults worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, other atopic conditions (e.g., asthma, hay fever), environmental allergens.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; chronic condition with potential flare-ups.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, sleep disturbances, reduced quality of life.
Acne
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
blackheads; whiteheads; papules; pustules; cysts; redness or inflammation
Root Cause:
Blockage of hair follicles by oil and dead skin cells, often exacerbated by bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on lesion type and severity.
Treatment:
Topical and systemic therapies depending on severity.
Medications:
Topical retinoids (e.g., adapalene ), benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline ), hormonal treatments (e.g., oral contraceptives), isotretinoin for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 85% of adolescents; can persist into adulthood.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hormonal changes, genetics, certain cosmetics, high-glycemic diet.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; scarring may occur in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Scarring, hyperpigmentation, psychosocial impact.
Fungal Infections (e.g., Athlete's Foot, Ringworm)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
red, scaly, itchy patches; cracking or peeling skin; circular lesions with a raised edge (ringworm); blisters (athlete’s foot)
Root Cause:
Infection of the skin by dermatophyte fungi (e.g., Trichophyton species).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, skin scraping for microscopy or fungal culture.
Treatment:
Topical or systemic antifungal medications.
Medications:
Topical antifungals (e.g., clotrimazole , terbinafine ), oral antifungals (e.g., fluconazole , itraconazole ) for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; affects millions annually, especially in warm and humid climates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Warm, moist environments, tight clothing, shared facilities (e.g., gyms).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; recurrence is common if prevention measures aren’t followed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, chronic recurrence.
Dermatitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
redness; itching; swelling; dry or flaky skin; blisters (in some types)
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the skin caused by allergens, irritants, or genetic predisposition.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, patch testing for allergic causes.
Treatment:
Avoidance of triggers, topical treatments, symptomatic relief.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids, emollients, antihistamines for itching.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; affects about 15–20% of children and adults at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Irritant exposure, allergens, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with trigger avoidance and treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary infections, chronic inflammation.
Warts and Verrucas
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
raised, rough skin lesions; black dots (clotted blood vessels); pain (verrucas on soles of feet)
Root Cause:
Infection of the skin by human papillomavirus (HPV), leading to rapid skin cell growth.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination.
Treatment:
Cryotherapy, salicylic acid, surgical removal, immune-boosting treatments.
Medications:
Topical salicylic acid, imiquimod (immune modulator).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, particularly in children and young adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Skin trauma, immunosuppression, direct contact with infected surfaces.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many warts resolve spontaneously; treatment speeds resolution.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, spread to other areas.
Skin Allergies
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
red, itchy rash; swelling; blisters; hives; peeling skin
Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to allergens such as metals, plants, or chemicals.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, patch testing.
Treatment:
Avoidance of allergens, topical and systemic treatments for symptoms.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, emollients.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 20% of people at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, exposure to known allergens.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with trigger avoidance and treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic dermatitis, secondary infections.
Hives (Urticaria)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
raised, itchy welts; red or skin-colored bumps; swelling; disappears and reappears in different areas
Root Cause:
Immune-mediated release of histamine causing swelling and redness.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation; blood tests or allergen testing in chronic cases.
Treatment:
Avoidance of triggers, antihistamines.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., loratadine , cetirizine ), corticosteroids for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 20% of people at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergens, stress, infections, certain medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for acute cases; chronic cases may persist for months or years.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Angioedema, anaphylaxis (rare).
Skin Infections (e.g., Cellulitis, Impetigo)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Dermatological Conditions
Symptoms:
red, swollen, tender skin; fever; blisters (impetigo); warmth over affected area
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the skin, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination; swab culture in atypical cases.
Treatment:
Antibiotics, wound care.
Medications:
Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin for impetigo), oral antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin , dicloxacillin).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; cellulitis is more frequent in middle-aged and older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Skin trauma, poor hygiene, diabetes, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, sepsis, deep tissue infections.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; cough; sneezing; mild fever; fatigue; headache
Root Cause:
Viral infections affecting the nasal passages, sinuses, pharynx, or larynx, commonly caused by rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, or adenoviruses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and symptoms; no specific tests unless bacterial complications are suspected.
Treatment:
Supportive care (rest, hydration, symptomatic relief).
Medications:
OTC decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ), pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen , acetaminophen ), throat lozenges.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; adults experience 2–4 episodes annually, while children have more frequent infections.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, colder seasons, weakened immune system.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most cases resolve within 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sinusitis, otitis media, secondary bacterial infections.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) (e.g., Chlamydia, Gonorrhea)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
painful urination; abnormal genital discharge; pelvic pain; bleeding between periods; testicular pain (in men)
Root Cause:
Infections caused by sexually transmitted bacteria (e.g., Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on urine or swabs.
Treatment:
Antibiotics tailored to the specific pathogen.
Medications:
Azithromycin or doxycycline for chlamydia; ceftriaxone plus azithromycin or doxycycline for gonorrhea.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; chlamydia is the most reported bacterial STI worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sex, multiple partners, previous STIs.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; untreated cases may lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, epididymitis.
Mononucleosis (Glandular Fever)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
fever; sore throat; swollen lymph nodes; fatigue; enlarged spleen; headache; muscle aches
Root Cause:
Infection by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), spread through saliva ("kissing disease").
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, blood tests (monospot test, EBV antibodies).
Treatment:
Supportive care (hydration, rest, symptom relief); avoid physical activity to prevent spleen rupture.
Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ) for fever and pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in adolescents and young adults; about 90% of adults are infected with EBV by adulthood.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, sharing drinks or utensils.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; symptoms resolve in 2–4 weeks, though fatigue may persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spleen rupture, secondary infections, prolonged fatigue.
Shingles
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
painful, blistering rash in a band-like pattern on one side of the body; burning or tingling sensation; fever; fatigue; itching or sensitivity in the affected area
Root Cause:
Reactivation of dormant varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in nerve tissues, often triggered by immunosuppression or aging.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on characteristic rash; PCR testing or direct fluorescent antibody test for confirmation.
Treatment:
Antiviral therapy, pain management, and supportive care.
Medications:
Antivirals (e.g., acyclovir , valacyclovir , famciclovir ), pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , NSAIDs), topical lidocaine for localized pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
About 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime, with increased risk in older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, weakened immune system, stress, prior chickenpox infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; symptoms typically resolve within 2–4 weeks, though pain may persist in some cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Postherpetic neuralgia (chronic pain in affected area), vision loss (if involving the eye), bacterial superinfection of the rash, rare neurological complications (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis).
Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Sub-category: Menstrual disorders
Symptoms:
excessive menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days; passing large clots; fatigue or weakness due to blood loss; pelvic pain during menstruation
Root Cause:
Hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, endometriosis, or bleeding disorders.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, pelvic examination, blood tests (e.g., hemoglobin levels), ultrasound, hysteroscopy.
Treatment:
Medications, hormonal therapy, surgical interventions if severe.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ), hormonal contraceptives (e.g., oral pills, IUD), tranexamic acid, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 20–30% of women of reproductive age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, family history, bleeding disorders, hormonal imbalances.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; underlying cause dictates long-term outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anemia, fatigue, reduced quality of life.
Amenorrhea
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Sub-category: Menstrual disorders
Symptoms:
absence of menstrual periods for more than three cycles in a row (secondary amenorrhea); delayed onset of menstruation in adolescents (primary amenorrhea)
Root Cause:
Hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction, extreme stress, or low body weight.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, blood tests (hormone levels), pelvic ultrasound, MRI (for pituitary abnormalities).
Treatment:
Treating the underlying cause (e.g., hormonal therapy, lifestyle changes).
Medications:
Hormonal therapy (e.g., combined oral contraceptives), medications for specific causes (e.g., levothyroxine for hypothyroidism).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 3–4% of women; more common in athletes or individuals with eating disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
PCOS, extreme physical activity, low body fat, chronic illnesses.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; depends on addressing the underlying cause.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infertility, osteoporosis (from long-term low estrogen levels).
Contraception Advice and Prescriptions
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Symptoms:
not applicable; involves choosing methods to prevent pregnancy or manage menstrual cycles.
Root Cause:
Individual needs for pregnancy prevention, menstrual regulation, or treatment of gynecological conditions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Patient preferences, medical history, physical examination.
Treatment:
Counseling on methods (hormonal, barrier, long-acting reversible contraception, permanent sterilization).
Medications:
Hormonal contraceptives (e.g., oral pills, patches, injections, IUDs), emergency contraception (levonorgestrel , ulipristal acetate).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Used by a majority of women of reproductive age globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Individual preferences, medical conditions affecting choice of contraception.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper method selection and adherence.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hormonal side effects, rare risks of blood clots with hormonal methods.
Fertility Advice and Initial Assessments
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Symptoms:
not applicable; involves difficulties conceiving or planning pregnancy.
Root Cause:
Ovulatory dysfunction, sperm abnormalities, age-related decline in fertility, structural issues.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History, hormonal tests, semen analysis, ultrasound, hysterosalpingography.
Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, ovulation induction, referral to specialists for advanced treatments.
Medications:
Clomiphene citrate, letrozole , gonadotropins for ovulation induction.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–15% of couples worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, PCOS, endometriosis, lifestyle factors, male infertility.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early intervention; advanced treatments improve outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Emotional distress, need for assisted reproductive techniques (e.g., IVF).
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Symptoms:
difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection; reduced sexual desire
Root Cause:
Vascular, neurological, hormonal, or psychological causes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History, physical exam, blood tests (testosterone, glucose), vascular studies (penile Doppler ultrasound).
Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications.
Medications:
Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil , tadalafil ), hormone replacement (testosterone ) if low.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 30–50% of men aged 40–70.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, smoking, psychological stress.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; underlying causes dictate outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Relationship stress, reduced quality of life.
Cystitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Symptoms:
painful urination; frequent urination; pelvic discomfort; cloudy or foul-smelling urine; blood in urine
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by bacterial infection (most commonly Escherichia coli).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urinalysis, urine culture.
Treatment:
Antibiotics, hydration, pain relief.
Medications:
Nitrofurantoin , trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, fosfomycin .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in women; affects up to 50% at least once in their lifetime.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female anatomy, sexual activity, urinary catheter use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent infections, pyelonephritis, chronic bladder inflammation.
Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Symptoms:
fever; flank pain; nausea; vomiting; chills; painful urination; cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection ascending from the bladder to the kidneys.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urinalysis, urine culture, imaging (e.g., CT or ultrasound for severe cases).
Treatment:
Antibiotics, hydration, hospitalization in severe cases.
Medications:
Ciprofloxacin , ceftriaxone , trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1–2% of women annually; less common in men.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
UTIs, kidney stones, diabetes, urinary obstruction.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, kidney damage, abscess formation.
Yeast Infections
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Sub-category: Vaginal Infections
Symptoms:
itching and irritation in the vaginal area; thick, white discharge; redness or swelling; pain during intercourse or urination
Root Cause:
Overgrowth of Candida species, commonly Candida albicans, in the vaginal or genital area.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, microscopic evaluation of discharge.
Treatment:
Antifungal medications.
Medications:
Topical antifungals (e.g., clotrimazole , miconazole ), oral fluconazole .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 75% of women at least once in their lifetime.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Antibiotic use, high blood sugar, weakened immune system.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic or recurrent infections.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Genitourinary and Reproductive Health
Sub-category: Vaginal Infections
Symptoms:
thin, gray or white vaginal discharge; fishy odor, especially after intercourse; mild itching or irritation
Root Cause:
Disruption of normal vaginal flora, with an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, vaginal pH testing, microscopy (clue cells).
Treatment:
Antibiotics.
Medications:
Metronidazole (oral or gel), clindamycin (oral or cream).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Multiple sexual partners, douching, new sexual partner.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; recurrence is common.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease, complications during pregnancy.
Cuts and Abrasions
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Minor Injuries and Wound Care
Symptoms:
bleeding; pain; redness; swelling; visible damage to the skin; scabbing during healing
Root Cause:
Damage to the skin caused by sharp objects (cuts) or friction (abrasions).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual examination of the wound.
Treatment:
Cleaning the wound, controlling bleeding, applying antiseptics, and covering with a sterile dressing.
Medications:
Topical antiseptics (e.g., povidone-iodine), antibiotic ointments (e.g., bacitracin ), pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; occurs frequently due to minor accidents.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma, falls, contact with sharp objects.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper wound care; most heal within days to weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, delayed healing in deeper wounds.
Sprains and Strains
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Minor Injuries and Wound Care
Symptoms:
pain at the affected site; swelling; bruising; difficulty moving the affected joint or muscle; stiffness
Root Cause:
Sprains
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging (e.g., X-ray, MRI) to rule out fractures or severe tears.
Treatment:
RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), physical therapy, bracing for support.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ) for pain and inflammation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in athletes and individuals engaged in physical activities.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor conditioning, inadequate warm-up, uneven surfaces.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for mild cases; severe tears may require surgery.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic instability, reduced range of motion, recurrent injuries.
Minor Burns
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Minor Injuries and Wound Care
Symptoms:
redness; pain; swelling; blisters (second-degree burns); peeling during healing
Root Cause:
Damage to the skin caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation, affecting only superficial layers (first-degree) or partially deeper layers (second-degree).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on the appearance and depth of the burn.
Treatment:
Cooling the burn with water, applying topical treatments, covering with a sterile non-adhesive dressing.
Medications:
Topical antibiotics (e.g., silver sulfadiazine ), pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; often caused by household accidents.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Handling hot liquids, open flames, sunburn, contact with chemicals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt care; superficial burns heal within days to weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, pigmentation changes.
Minor Fractures (e.g., Fingers, Toes)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Minor Injuries and Wound Care
Symptoms:
pain; swelling; bruising; difficulty moving the affected digit; deformity (in some cases)
Root Cause:
Break in the bone caused by trauma or excessive stress.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-ray imaging.
Treatment:
Immobilization with splints or buddy taping, rest, elevation, and pain management.
Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; often result from falls, sports injuries, or accidents.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact activities, weakened bones, poor protective gear during sports.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for minor fractures; healing occurs within 4–6 weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, stiffness, delayed healing.
Insect Bites and Stings
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Minor Injuries and Wound Care
Symptoms:
redness; swelling; pain; itching; blisters (in some cases); allergic reactions (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing)
Root Cause:
Local skin reaction to insect venom, saliva, or body parts.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination and history of exposure.
Treatment:
Cleaning the area, applying cold compresses, antihistamines for itching, and epinephrine for severe allergic reactions.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone ), oral antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine ), epinephrine autoinjector for anaphylaxis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; most reactions are mild.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Outdoor activities, exposure to insects, lack of protective clothing.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for mild cases; allergic reactions require immediate intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infection, anaphylaxis (rare).
Removal of Foreign Bodies (e.g., Splinters, Earwax)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Minor Injuries and Wound Care
Symptoms:
pain or irritation at the site; visible foreign object; inflammation or redness; hearing difficulty (in earwax cases)
Root Cause:
Foreign material lodged in the skin, ear canal, or other areas due to accidents or buildup (e.g., earwax).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual inspection with tools like an otoscope for ear cases.
Treatment:
Manual removal using appropriate instruments (e.g., tweezers, forceps, irrigation).
Medications:
Antiseptics for wound cleaning (e.g., povidone-iodine), earwax softeners (e.g., carbamide peroxide drops).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in both children and adults due to accidental insertion or trauma.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Outdoor activities, working with small objects, earwax buildup.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most cases resolve with proper removal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, tissue damage, hearing loss (if untreated in earwax cases).
Food Allergies
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Allergic and Immunological Conditions
Symptoms:
hives; swelling of lips, face, or tongue; abdominal pain; vomiting; diarrhea; itchy throat; anaphylaxis (severe cases)
Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction to specific proteins in foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish, eggs).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, skin prick testing, blood tests for specific IgE antibodies, oral food challenge (under supervision).
Treatment:
Avoidance of trigger foods, emergency treatment for severe reactions.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine ) for mild symptoms, epinephrine autoinjector for anaphylaxis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 6–8% of children and 2–3% of adults globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, other allergies (e.g., asthma, eczema), early exposure to allergens.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with strict avoidance; children may outgrow some allergies.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, nutritional deficiencies if dietary restrictions are poorly managed.
Drug Allergies
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Allergic and Immunological Conditions
Symptoms:
rash; hives; itching; fever; swelling; difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction to medications, such as antibiotics (e.g., penicillin) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, skin testing (e.g., penicillin allergy testing), graded drug challenge.
Treatment:
Discontinuation of the offending drug, supportive care, desensitization in some cases.
Medications:
Antihistamines, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for moderate reactions; epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 5–10% of people exposed to medications.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous drug reactions, genetic predisposition, chronic illnesses.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt management and avoidance of the trigger drug.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Anaphylaxis (Emergency Management)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Allergic and Immunological Conditions
Symptoms:
difficulty breathing; swelling of the throat or tongue; hives; severe hypotension; rapid or weak pulse; dizziness or fainting; nausea or vomiting
Root Cause:
Life-threatening systemic allergic reaction involving massive histamine release and widespread inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation during acute symptoms; no diagnostic tests needed during an emergency.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of epinephrine, airway management, IV fluids, observation in a hospital setting.
Medications:
Epinephrine autoinjector (first-line), antihistamines, corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ) for prolonged reactions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1–2% of the population; rising prevalence globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Food allergies, insect stings, drug allergies, prior anaphylaxis episodes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; delayed treatment increases risk of fatality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac arrest, airway obstruction, recurrent anaphylaxis (biphasic reaction).
Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Allergic and Immunological Conditions
Symptoms:
sneezing; runny or stuffy nose; itchy eyes, nose, or throat; watery eyes; fatigue
Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction to airborne allergens (e.g., pollen, mold spores) during specific seasons.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, allergy testing (skin prick or blood tests for allergen-specific IgE).
Treatment:
Allergen avoidance, medications for symptom relief, immunotherapy for long-term management.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., loratadine , cetirizine ), nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , mometasone ), decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–30% of the global population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, exposure to seasonal allergens, asthma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment and allergen management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sinusitis, poor sleep quality, reduced productivity during allergy season.
Hearing Loss (Initial Assessment)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Conditions
Symptoms:
difficulty hearing conversations; need for higher volume on devices; tinnitus; social withdrawal due to communication challenges
Root Cause:
Can be conductive (blockage or damage in the outer/middle ear) or sensorineural (damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Audiometry, otoscopic examination, tuning fork tests, imaging if structural abnormalities are suspected.
Treatment:
Removal of obstructions (e.g., earwax), hearing aids for sensorineural loss, surgical interventions for conductive loss.
Medications:
Steroids (e.g., prednisone ) for sudden sensorineural hearing loss; no specific medications for most chronic cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 5% of the global population; prevalence increases with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, noise exposure, infections, ototoxic medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the cause; many cases are manageable with hearing aids or surgery.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Communication difficulties, social isolation, depression.
Vertigo (e.g., Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Conditions
Symptoms:
spinning sensation; loss of balance; nausea; vomiting; nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
Root Cause:
Displacement of calcium crystals (otoliths) in the inner ear, affecting balance.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Dix-Hallpike maneuver, clinical history, imaging (if atypical symptoms).
Treatment:
Repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver), medications for symptom relief in acute episodes.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., meclizine ), benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam ) for severe episodes.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
BPPV is the most common cause of peripheral vertigo; affects about 1–2% of the population annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, head trauma, vestibular disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment; symptoms often resolve with repositioning maneuvers.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Falls, persistent imbalance, anxiety about recurrent episodes.
Sore Throat and Pharyngitis
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Conditions
Symptoms:
throat pain; difficulty swallowing; red and swollen throat; fever; swollen lymph nodes; hoarseness
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the pharynx due to viral infections (e.g., adenovirus, rhinovirus) or bacterial infections (e.g., Streptococcus pyogenes).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, rapid strep test, throat culture.
Treatment:
Supportive care for viral cases; antibiotics for bacterial infections.
Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ), antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin ) for bacterial pharyngitis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely common; most cases are viral and self-limiting.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune system, smoking.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; viral cases resolve in days, bacterial cases improve with antibiotics.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Sleep Apnea
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Miscellaneous
Symptoms:
loud snoring; episodes of stopped breathing during sleep; gasping or choking upon waking; daytime fatigue; morning headaches; difficulty concentrating
Root Cause:
Repeated obstruction of the airway during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea) or failure of the brain to signal breathing muscles (central sleep apnea).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sleep study (polysomnography), home sleep apnea tests for simpler cases.
Treatment:
Weight management, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, surgery in severe cases.
Medications:
No primary medication; stimulants (e.g., modafinil ) may be prescribed for residual daytime sleepiness in treated patients.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 9–38% of adults; more common in men and individuals with obesity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, large neck circumference, alcohol use, smoking, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; untreated cases lead to significant health risks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, daytime accidents due to fatigue.
Male-Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Miscellaneous
Sub-category: Hairloss
Symptoms:
gradual hair thinning; receding hairline; bald spots on the crown; hair becoming finer and shorter over time
Root Cause:
Hormonal changes involving dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and genetic predisposition leading to hair follicle miniaturization.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, scalp biopsy in rare cases.
Treatment:
Medications to slow hair loss, hair restoration procedures for advanced cases.
Medications:
Minoxidil (topical), finasteride (oral), dutasteride (off-label use).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 50% of men by age 50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, aging, high levels of androgens.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive condition; treatment can slow or partially reverse hair loss but not cure it.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Psychological impact, social anxiety, reduced self-esteem.